Kunle and Lola Oyeyemi
Impact
MOSHOPE OYEYEMI MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT
Moshope Oyeyemi was born on February 18, 2000, in Queens, New York, a city known for its relentless energy and limitless dreams, much like the young man himself. From the moment he entered the world, his bright, inquisitive eyes and radiant smile lit up every room, leaving an indelible impression on all who met him. Even as an infant, Moshope radiated joy, curiosity, and unstoppable vitality.
His early years were marked by academic excellence and intellectual promise. He attended Elkridge Elementary, Elkridge Landing Middle School, and Howard High School, where he stood out not only for his scholastic achievements, earning multiple Maryland State Academic Excellence Awards, but also for his magnetic personality and natural leadership.
At the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), Moshope found his calling at the confluence of technology and finance. In 2021, his diligence and drive led him to a coveted internship at Morgan Stanley, a stepping stone that soon became a launchpad. Before graduating, he was offered a full-time position, a testament to his extraordinary potential and work ethic.
It was also at UMBC that Moshope unexpectedly fell in love with rugby. Though he had never played before, he showed impressive dexterity, displaying innate agility and strength that quickly earned his teammates’ admiration. One friend recalled, “One of the first memories that comes to mind is him randomly showing up late to a game. The coach put him in, and he scored almost immediately. We all got so excited.” if that doesn’t sound precisely like Moshope, I don’t know what does; he was a determined super achiever, driven to succeed with passion and vigor.
That moment captured the essence of Moshope, fearless, focused, and fueled by a burning desire to exceed expectations. His ascent at Morgan Stanley was swift. Starting as an Analyst and soon promoted to Associate within the Global Operations, Risk, and Regulatory Control Team, he infused the workplace with ambition, insight, and empathy. He was not just a colleague but a mentor, confidant, and loyal friend, someone who lifted others as he climbed.
In a 2022 Morgan Stanley interview, Moshope was asked, “If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?” His answer: “Time travel. I’d use it to revisit the past to correct wrongs and venture into the future to discover breakthroughs, like the cure for world hunger or the secret to immortality. I’d bring those answers back to make life better for everyone. My goal would be simple: world peace.” That response speaks volumes, not just about his intellect but about his heart. He dreamed beyond himself, always envisioning a better world and considering how he might contribute to its creation.
Moshope’s vibrant spirit touched everyone he encountered. Effortlessly engaging, he made friends across every age, culture, and background. He lived with wide-eyed wonder, whether driving down scenic roads, getting lost in the brushstrokes of a painting, embarking on solo travels to Japan, Denmark, and Sweden, hiking through nature, or immersing himself in music and dance. His creativity was boundless, his laughter infectious, and his love for life truly profound.
He found joy in everything: golf, rugby, museums, cooking, travel, but above all, he cherished time with his family and friends. His illuminating smile was not just charming; it was a window into his boundless compassion and his unwavering belief in making a difference.
To honor the enduring spirit, brilliance, and love that defined him, the Moshope Oyeyemi Memorial Scholarship Endowment was established in 2025 by his loving and devoted parents, Lola and Kunle Oyeyemi. The scholarship ensures that Moshope Oyeyemi’s legacy will live on in perpetuity, empowering generations of dreamers, doers, and changemakers to make the world a better place.